The 9 Best Toilet Seats to Buy in 2024

This comprehensive guide highlights the best toilet seats available, emphasizing how a simple upgrade can significantly enhance a bathroom's comfort, hygiene, and aesthetic. It explains that upgrading a toilet seat is a small change with a big impact, noting features such as slow-close lids and anti-bacterial coatings that contribute to a quieter, more hygienic, and pleasant bathroom experience. The article addresses the common scenario where new toilets are purchased without accompanying seats, necessitating careful selection. The market offers a variety of toilet seat types, including round, elongated, and open-front, alongside options with advanced features like built-in bidets, heated functions, and smart capabilities, all of which are considered worthy investments due to their frequent use. The guide categorizes its top picks, starting with round toilet seats, which are typically 16.5 inches long and ideal for smaller bathrooms or traditional aesthetics often found in older homes. These selections prioritize soft- or slow-close lids to prevent slamming, easy installation, and secure fit, with durable options made from wood or plastic. Elongated toilet seats, measuring around 18.5 inches, offer a larger, more comfortable seating area and are available in various colors and materials like plastic and wood, ensuring stability during use. The review extends to bidet toilet seats, presenting them as a luxurious upgrade that improves cleanliness and reduces toilet paper consumption. It differentiates between electric bidets, which offer advanced features like adjustable water temperature, air drying, and self-cleaning, despite requiring more complex plumbing and electrical installations, and non-electric bidets, which are more affordable and easier to install, providing essential benefits without all the bells and whistles. Heated toilet seats are introduced as an excellent option for added comfort, especially in colder climates, noting that they require an electrical outlet. While electric bidet seats often include a heating function, dedicated heated seats are also discussed, emphasizing adjustable temperature settings and smart control capabilities. Open-front toilet seats, commonly seen in public restrooms, are presented as a beneficial choice for high-traffic home bathrooms, as they minimize direct contact, reduce germ transfer, and facilitate easier cleaning, particularly for individuals with mobility issues. The selection process involved extensive research into various toilet seat types, manufacturer data, installation videos, and consumer feedback. Key features prioritized for standard seats include quick-release hinges for easy cleaning, soft-close designs, scent dispensers, and antimicrobial protection. For luxury options like heated and bidet seats, ease of installation, user-friendliness, and adjustability were crucial considerations, alongside premium features such as nightlights, air dryers, and precise water temperature control. The article also provides essential advice on choosing the correct size and shape (round or elongated) by measuring the toilet bowl, discussing the durability and maintenance of plastic versus wood materials, and offering guidance on do-it-yourself installation, noting that complex setups for bidets and heated seats might require professional plumbing or electrical assistance. Finally, the importance of proper cleaning and maintenance is stressed to ensure the longevity of the toilet seat, recommending appropriate disinfectants and cleaning techniques to prevent damage and maintain hygiene. #ToiletSeats #BathroomUpgrade #HomeImprovement #BidetSeats #HeatedToiletSeats #RoundToiletSeats #ElongatedToiletSeats #SlowClose #HomeHygiene

A recent study, the 2024 Bathroom Trends Research Report from the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA), highlights six key wellness-related design trends influencing bathroom remodels and new constructions. These trends are corroborated by insights from NKBA member designers Christopher Grubb, Julee Ireland, Anne-Marie Brunet, and Sandra Diaz-Velasco. Personalized features are a significant trend, with designers focusing on creating multi-sensory experiences. Brunet incorporates layered lighting, music, home fragrances, and textured finishes. Velasco uses dramatic wallpaper, murals, oversized patterns, and gradient colors to create visual impact. Grubb emphasizes functional storage solutions like slide-outs for toiletries and built-in hampers, which streamline routines and reduce stress. Ireland integrates spa-like amenities such as built-in lockers, benches, saunas, and aromatherapy, along with multiple water features in showers to cater to individual preferences. A strong health focus is also evident. Ireland designs bathrooms to counteract stress, which is increasingly recognized as a major contributor to illness. She prioritizes understanding clients' lifestyles to simplify and ease their daily routines within their new spaces. Grubb highlights the importance of natural light for wellness, recommending oversized, triple-glazed windows for abundant light and fresh air. He also suggests operable windows and smart glass for privacy and air circulation, promoting an overall sense of openness and well-being. Accessibility is another crucial trend, particularly due to the aging population. Approximately 90% of Ireland's clients consider accessibility features for themselves or aging parents, or due to family members with health issues. She integrates curbless showers, extra-wide entrances, open-concept layouts for wheelchair access, grab bars, bench seats, and lower-height shower trims to promote independence. Brunet notes that blocking for grab bars is often required, and there's a growing interest in zero-entry showers, even in secondary bathrooms, to enhance overall home accessibility. Grubb mentions wall-mount vanities that can be adjusted, integrated towel/grab bars, handheld showerheads, benches, and zero-threshold showers with wider doors, often framed as stylish and comfortable additions rather than just accessibility features. There is a notable shift towards larger showers over traditional tubs. Brunet reports that 85% of remodeling projects involve removing a tub for a more spacious shower, attributing this to time constraints, water conservation, and reduced maintenance. She observes an increase in steam shower installations for health benefits like arthritis and respiratory relief, viewing shower spaces as experiential destinations for relaxation. Grubb's clients consistently request large, spacious showers that accommodate two people, but caution against excessive sizing that might compromise steam shower efficiency. Ireland designs three-zone showers for shared spaces and incorporates spa features like steam, body sprays, and multiple showerheads. Despite this trend, all three designers acknowledge that some clients still desire tubs for visual appeal or the relaxation of soaking. Wet rooms are predicted to remain a strong trend for 2024. Ireland sees wet rooms as providing the spacious, spa-like, and open feel her clients desire, while also preventing water intrusion. Their simplistic design, devoid of disjointed elements, facilitates easier movement and optimal use of space. Velasco notes that wet areas, including both shower and tub, are increasingly designed for more space, natural light, and sensory enjoyment, as families spend more time at home and seek comfort in every area. Finally, large-format tile is gaining popularity. Ireland states that about 60% of her clients choose large-format tiles for primary baths, driven by advancements in technology that offer realistic stone looks with lower cost and maintenance. Brunet specifies large-format slabs almost exclusively for their uncluttered appearance, minimal grout lines, ease of cleaning, and luxurious aesthetic in showers and tub surrounds. Grubb also uses oversized porcelain tiles on floors or large tiles to reduce grout lines for clients who prefer modern designs.

The article explores upcoming bathroom tile trends for 2024, moving beyond traditional painted walls to incorporate statement-making tile designs. Interior designers Ashley Biscan, Gabrielle Santiago, and Amy Peltier identify several key trends aimed at enhancing the bathroom's aesthetic appeal and functionality. The general consensus among experts is to embrace tiling beyond just the shower, covering entire bathroom walls to create a cohesive and immersive design narrative. One significant trend highlighted is the resurgence of half walls with chair rails, offering an opportunity to introduce architectural detail. This design allows for a combination of tile with complementary paint or wallpaper above, creating a dynamic look, especially in powder rooms or larger bathroom suites. The addition of statement sconces can further elevate this trend. Another unique approach involves tiled barrel ceilings or bath alcoves, which impart a sense of luxury. While barrel ceilings offer a distinct curved aesthetic, tiling flat ceilings also provides an unexpected yet well-received design element, with mosaic tiles being particularly suitable for curved surfaces due to their flexibility. The article notes a shift away from conventional rectangular and square tiles towards more creative shapes, such as hexagons and various mosaic patterns, allowing for more adventurous and visually interesting floor and wall designs. Furthermore, classic tile silhouettes like subway tiles, Zellige, and penny rounds are being reinterpreted through pattern play. Designers are utilizing these familiar forms to create stripes, checkered patterns, and chevrons, showcasing versatility and adding character without the risk of quickly becoming outdated. Material trends include the bold choice of black marble with deep veins, offering a moodier and more dramatic alternative to the classic white marble. Checkerboard patterns with marble are also gaining popularity for an extra visual impact. Statement backsplashes are evolving, with homeowners opting for tile instead of traditional marble or quartz to add dimension and intricate designs, including curved and cut-out shapes. Natural stone tiling, encompassing materials like travertine and limestone, is making a strong comeback. This trend emphasizes natural elements and warmer neutral palettes, such as sandy tones, to counteract the coldness often associated with all-white bathrooms, moving away from cool gray tones. For a polished and practical solution, floor-to-ceiling large format tiling is gaining traction. This approach creates a seamless look and offers the benefit of fewer grout lines, simplifying cleaning and maintenance. Mosaic tiling with metallic accents, particularly brass, is highlighted for its ability to infuse a luxurious, boutique hotel-like feel into the bathroom space. Conversely, small-scale patterns are noted for their ability to add a subtle, comfortable, and sweet touch to a room that might otherwise feel sterile. Finally, grout is no longer an afterthought; innovative grout play, featuring thicker or thinner lines, is being used to dictate the overall tile style, significantly influencing the modern and clean aesthetic of the bathroom design. #BathroomTileTrends #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #TileDesign #NaturalStone #MosaicTiles #Marble #GroutPlay #HomeImprovement

This article discusses several outdated bathroom trends that are recommended for retirement in 2024, aiming to help homeowners refresh their bathrooms. It acknowledges that the bathroom, traditionally viewed as a functional space, is increasingly seen as a place for relaxation and personalization, leading to a shift in design preferences. The piece emphasizes that a full renovation isn't always necessary; often, small cosmetic updates can significantly transform a space, especially if the underlying structure is sound and the finishes are classic. One of the most strongly discouraged trends is the use of any type of carpet in bathrooms due to its propensity for mold and mildew growth. Instead, absorbent bath mats are suggested as a hygienic and stylish alternative. Dark fixtures, such as matte black or oil-rubbed bronze, are also noted as potentially dating a bathroom. The recommendation is to opt for timeless finishes like polished nickel, unlacquered brass, or even chrome for a classic look. The article advises against the "matchy-matchy" approach to bathroom design, where toilets, tubs, and sinks are perfectly coordinated, a style reminiscent of retro bathrooms. It encourages mixing elements and using one or two statement pieces rather than a uniform color scheme. Wood paneling, a popular feature in the 1970s, is another trend to avoid in bathrooms due to its tendency to make the room appear aged, though it may still be suitable for other areas of the home. Instead of completely gutting bathrooms, the article suggests creative updates for existing fixtures. For instance, an outdated pedestal sink can be modernized by updating its hardware and adding a fabric skirt for personality and storage. Paint and textiles are highlighted as effective tools for diverting attention from older elements. For example, leaving original tubs and floors while updating fixtures and adding a fresh coat of paint and a new shower curtain can revitalize a space. The trend of "all white everything" bathrooms is also on its way out. While white bathrooms can be classic, the recent emphasis on stark minimalism is giving way to designs that incorporate splashes of color and pattern through wallpaper, tile, textiles, artwork, and hardware. The goal is to infuse white bathrooms with warmth and invitation through texture and color. Oversized, bulky built-in bathtubs, particularly jacuzzi-style models, are deemed outdated, distinct from the timeless appeal of deep clawfoot tubs. Corner tubs and showers are also discouraged, as they can make a bathroom feel cramped and commercial, despite their intention to maximize space. Glass block windows, popular in the 1930s and 1940s for concealing unsightly views, are now considered dated; traditional double-hung windows are preferred for natural light and ventilation. Regarding mirrors, frameless and bulb-framed options are to be avoided, as they can make a bathroom resemble a backstage dressing room or a sterile office. Decorative or antique mirrors are suggested to create a modern and stylish statement. For double sinks, using a pair of matching decorative mirrors is recommended over a single large one. Finally, overly ornate details such as gaudy crown molding, crystal chandeliers, and excessively detailed millwork are considered outdated. The article promotes a soothing, simple aesthetic, embracing thoughtful touches like antique vanities, unique sconces, and framed artwork to create a sanctuary-like bathroom space. #BathroomTrends #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #OutdatedDecor #ModernBathroom #HomeDecor #DesignTips #BathroomUpdate #TimelessDesign

The article explores five key technology trends that are set to enhance wellness-related bathroom design in 2024, drawing insights from the National Kitchen & Bath Association’s (NKBA) 2024 Bathroom Trends Research Report and expert opinions from five prominent design professionals: Christopher Grubb, Julee Ireland, Anne-Marie Brunet, Sandra Diaz-Velasco, and Jaque Bethke. The overarching theme is the integration of smart home features to create more spa-like, comfortable, and safe bathroom environments. The first trend highlighted is Personalization Enhancement, where technology allows for tailored bathroom experiences. Designers like Anne-Marie Brunet observe increasing client requests for features such as digital shower controls and smart toilets. Sandra Diaz-Velasco notes the personalization extends to heated floors, lighting, and sound systems seamlessly integrated into home automation. Julee Ireland's clients are seeking motion-activated faucets, smart mirrors with fog-free technology, built-in lighting, electrical features, and voice-activated sound and light systems. Christopher Grubb’s clients are adopting smart glass for privacy, which can switch between a clear view and an opaque setting, and floor heating to ensure comfort, even in warmer climates. Smart Lighting is identified as the second significant trend. The NKBA report indicates that LED technology now accounts for 100% of lighting products specified for bathroom remodels, driven by both energy efficiency and wellness benefits. Sandra Diaz-Velasco's clients are particularly interested in circadian lighting for health and pathway illumination for safety, as well as chromotherapy for mood enhancement. These lighting systems can be integrated into smart home systems, allowing for programmed scenes like ‘Nighttime Relaxation’ or ‘Morning Start’ via a single click or voice command. Anne-Marie Brunet incorporates circadian lighting and programmable moods in high-end projects, emphasizing customizable task lighting for activities like shaving or makeup application, and safety lighting for nighttime use. Julee Ireland's clients request floor and cabinet illumination, sensor and dimmer controls, and multiple layers of lighting. Christopher Grubb details innovative applications such as lights in shower niches, under floating benches, strip lighting in toe kicks, and motion-activated night lights under wall-mounted vanities, along with internal cabinet and drawer lighting. The third trend focuses on Smart Showers, which integrate advanced technology for a more luxurious and therapeutic experience. Sandra Diaz-Velasco explains that integrated technology allows users to program and automate various water effects, such as rainfall, cascade, or mist, with synchronized lighting to enhance the spa ambiance. Anne-Marie Brunet notes a strong interest among her Canadian clients in remote shower starts. Julee Ireland states that smart showers, particularly with smart controls, are now considered a necessity by her clients. Christopher Grubb adds an extra exhaust fan in shower areas to improve ventilation, contributing to a healthier environment. Smart Tubs constitute the fourth trend, with the NKBA report showing a significant adoption of touch pad (47%), voice-activated (25%), and mobile app (24%) controls. Sandra Diaz-Velasco highlights the benefit of mobile app controls for second home owners, enabling remote monitoring, pre-arrival preparations, and maintenance scheduling. This capability likely includes leak and overflow protection with automatic shut-off features, preventing water damage, especially crucial for properties prone to freezing. Jaque Bethke observes a high demand for remote control features that allow tubs to be filled and brought to temperature from a distance, addressing the previous inconvenience of waiting for tubs to prepare. Finally, Smart Toilets represent the fifth trend, with a substantial 60% penetration in residential bathroom projects, according to the NKBA report. Jaque Bethke notes that heated seats and dryers (often referred to generically by the Toto bidet seat brand name, Washlet) are highly sought after, indicating that smart toilets are now a mainstream feature. Sandra Diaz-Velasco’s clients value self-cleaning and bidet options for comfort, and dual flush systems for water conservation. Anne-Marie Brunet's Canadian clients are enthusiastic about features like personalized spray wands, stainless steel cleaning wands, heated seats, lighted bases for nighttime use, hands-free seat covers, digital flush controls, hands-free flush controls, and individual preference recall. Christopher Grubb's Southern Californian clients request similar features. Julee Ireland emphasizes heated seats, motion-detection self-flush, auto-wash, and built-in bidet features, particularly for elderly clients, recognizing the luxury and enhanced ease of use despite the higher cost.